When you become a vegan, your world changes. You start to see the hidden animal ingredients in foods that you would never have guessed contained before. You learn about the horrific conditions in which livestock are raised, and you vow to do everything possible to avoid contributing to that cruelty.
But then, one day, something catches your eye as you browse through your local candle store. There, right in front of you, is a beautiful display of scented candles - some labeled "vegan." You pick up a jar of lavender-scented candles and give them a sniff... only to realize that they're not actually vegan at all!
What gives? Are candles vegan or not? The answer, unfortunately, is that it depends. While some candles are made entirely from plant-based materials and are therefore vegan, others contain non-vegan ingredients like beeswax, tallow, or lanolin. So, if you're looking for vegan candles, be sure to check the label carefully before making your purchase.
The vast majority of candles on the market are made from paraffin wax, a petroleum-based product. To make paraffin wax candles, crude oil (which contains fossilized remains of animals) must first be extracted from the ground. This process is not only environmentally destructive, but it also relies heavily on child labor.
After the crude oil has been extracted, it is refined and turned into paraffin wax. This wax is then used to make candles, which release harmful chemicals into the air when burned. In fact, the EPA has classified paraffin candles as a health hazard.
Moreover, there are different types of candles, depending on the ingredient used in the manufacturing process. So, if you're looking for a more environmentally-friendly and vegan-friendly option, choose candles made from soy, beeswax, or plant-based waxes like palm or coconut. These candles are not only better for the environment but also non-toxic and safe to burn in your home.
No, not all candles you see are vegan. The vast majority of candles on the market are made from animal-derived substances. There are a growing number of companies that offer vegan alternatives. The most common type of candle is made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining. This wax can also be mixed with other ingredients, such as fragrances. Read out our article about how to make scented paraffin candles.
However, vegans can choose from various plant-based waxes, such as soy, palm, and coconut. These candle waxes are often blended with oils and fragrances to create a product that is both eco-friendly and cruelty-free. As the demand for quality vegan candles grows, more companies will likely begin to offer these products. Until then, vegans can rest assured that they have plenty of options.
Beeswax and animal products (such as fat from animals) are non-vegan ingredients that make a candle non-vegan. Most candles are made with either Beeswax or Soy wax. However, a few other less common types of wax may be used in candles, such as Palm wax, Rice Bran wax, and even Gel wax. While all these waxes are derived from plants, they may not be considered vegan-friendly. For example, beeswax is produced by bees and therefore unsuitable for vegans.
Likewise, Palm wax is often sourced from countries where palm oil plantations have led to the destruction of natural habitats and the displacement of indigenous people. As a result, many vegans choose to avoid products that contain Palm wax. In contrast, Coconut wax and Soy wax are both vegan-friendly options that are widely available. If you are getting confused between them, you should read out comparison article on Coconut wax vs Soy wax. Gel wax is also a vegan-friendly option, although it is less common than the other types of waxes mentioned here.
Finding vegan-friendly candles can be tricky as few candle manufacturers sell their candles with vegan candle labels, as many brands use common animal-derived ingredients (such as beeswax) in their products. However, there are a few things to look for that can help you identify vegan-friendly candles.
Candles are one of the most challenging items to locate in vegan shopping. Unlike food, it's not always straightforward to determine whether or not a candle is a vegan based on the label.
It's important to understand that a candle has an animal-based component unless the container states otherwise. You won't run out of vegan candles, but remember that their pricing will always be greater than the cheapest ones. On the package of some more expensive candles, you'll see a vegan candle label, certification, or symbol indicating that the product is cruelty-free.
Here are some of the brands (verified by vegan.com) that only manufacture vegan candles ;
A vegan candle is a type of candle that does not use beeswax or any other animal products in its construction. While beeswax candles are more popular, vegan candles have several advantages worth considering.
For one thing, they are cruelty-free, as no animals are harmed in producing vegan candles. In addition, they are often made with soy wax, which is a renewable resource. Soy wax candles also produce less soot than beeswax candles, making them a better choice for those with respiratory conditions. Finally, vegan candles typically have a longer burn time than beeswax candles, meaning you get more bang for your buck. Vegan candles are worth considering whether you're looking for a cruelty-free option or want a longer-lasting candle.
Here are 5 reasons why vegan candles are better and why you should choose vegan candles over non-vegan candles;
1. Vegan candles are cruelty-free, meaning no animals are harmed in their production.
2. They are often made with natural substances, such as soy wax, a renewable resource.
3. Soy wax candles typically produce less soot than beeswax candles.
4. They are a healthier choice for those with respiratory conditions.
5. Vegan candles typically have a longer burn time than beeswax candles.
If you're feeling crafty, you can even make your own vegan candles at home.
Once you have all your supplies, simply melt the wax in a double boiler and pour it into the container. Then, add the essential oils and stir well. Allow the wax to cool and harden for 15-20 hours before trimming the candle wicks (if you made more than one wick) and lighting your candle. Enjoy your homemade vegan candle!
Making your own candles is a great way to control the ingredients and ensure they are all vegan-friendly. Plus, it's a fun project you can do with friends or family. If you're looking for a creative and fulfilling activity, DIY vegan candles are the way to go.